To celebrate Black History Month, the local library is hosting an afternoon of music featuring the work of two titans of song - Marian Anderson and Paul Robeson.
This tribute will be a mix of music and stories presented by the group Follow the Drinking Gourd, named after the Underground Railroad. This will be an opportunity for families to learn about their nation’s history through looking into the lives and music of two well-known singers.
Musically, Paul Robeson is probably most known for his deep baritone rendition of ‘Ole Man River’ in Showboat. He earned a degree in law from Columbia Law School in 1923 and went on into theater and music after a short time in a law firm. He went on to playing roles such as Othello on the London stage. Here in the U.S., he has had parts in 11 movies.
Marian Anderson, with her rich contralto voice, took to the classical concert stage during an era of few black singers. The National Medal of Arts was presented to her by President Reagan in 1986.
Follow the Drinking Gourd is a trio including pianist Diane Goldsmith, Shannon Hunt (who plays Marian Anderson), and Ivan Woods (who plays the bass and also represents Paul Robeson) . The event will be co-sponsored by the NAACP of Freehold and the Court Street School Centennial Committee.
Those wishing to attend will want to mark their Calendars for 2:00 pm to 4:00 pm this Saturday, February 27 at Headquarters, Manalapan, 125 Symmes Drive, Manalapan.
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